Hey guys
This chapter is very long, and I finally finished writing it. It took me a long time to complete.
I hope I done a good job thanks for reading.
__________
After capturing Black Axe Ned Hawell, Ryu strode through Logue Town with Ned slung over his shoulder. His brows furrowed as his sharp eyes swept across the streets, searching for the Marine base while carrying the defeated pirate like a sack of potatoes.
'Where the hell is that base? Did they change its location? I've been looking for that stupid base for hours, and I still can't find it anywhere. Damn those pesky Marines… are they toying with me? How dare they look down on me—the Samurai of Love!'
As he walked, Ryu spotted a dark alley to his right. Without a second thought, he turned and made his way into it.
After Ryu entered the alley and kept walking, a gang suddenly surrounded him, each one wearing a vicious grin.
Then, one of the ordinary-looking gang members glanced at the unconscious Ned slung over Ryu's shoulder and shouted in shock.
"Boss, look at that! Isn't that Black Axe Ned Howell? He's got a bounty of 16,500,000 Berri! All we have to do is beat up this brat, take Black Axe Ned, and hand him over to the Navy to cash in on his bounty!"
All the gang members stared at the unconscious Ned, their eyes gleaming with greed as they completely ignored Ryu.
Ryu smirked, utterly unfazed. He turned to face the gang, his eyes glinting with amusement as if their threats were nothing more than a joke to him.
A muscular man stepped forward, his face twisted like a monkey's. He let out a wild roar, shouting to his men with untamed excitement.
"Alright, boys! Let's crush this brat and claim the Black Axe bounty! From today, we live like kings!"
"Yeeeeeaaaaahhhhhhh!."
The entire gang lunged at Ryu, brandishing their weapons—daggers, pistols, swords, and even brutal maces and hammers glinting under the light.
Ryu didn't flinch for a second. With a smirk, he hurled the unconscious Ned, still slung over his shoulder, straight at the gang charging toward him.
"WHOOSH!"
"BAAM!"
Ned body-slammed the three gang members barreling toward him, and before they could recover, Ryu charged headlong. He didn't even bother drawing his katana—fists and feet became a blur, striking, kicking, and launching every attacker into the air like ragdolls.
"BAAM!, BAAM!, BAAM!, BAAM!"
It didn't take Ryu even a minute to take down the entire gang. The monkey-faced leader and his men groaned in pain, sprawled across the ground, their eyes wide with fear as they stared up at him.
The monkey-faced man looked at Ryu a flicker of fear crossing his wild expression, and he stammered out.
"W-who… who are you? You are a kid how can you be this strong?"
At the question, Ryu lifted his head, a smug grin spreading across his face as he looked down at the monkey-faced leader and his gang.
"Glad you asked. Allow me to introduce myself… to you worthless scumbags."
Ryu spun with a flourish, the tip of his sword slicing through the air as he unsheathed it in one fluid, lightning-fast motion.
"From the East to the West, from the North to the South, every man will one day hear—and tremble before—the Samurai who devoted his life to uncover the mysteries of love."
"I am the one who will rescue every beautiful flower in distress, the one who will admire the beauty and the delicate shapes of each blossom."
"Remember this name, and remember it well: Miyamoto D. Ryu—the greatest Samurai of Love."
The monkey-faced gang leader and his men wiped nervous sweat from their brows. They wanted—oh, how they wanted—to laugh at Ryu's over-the-top introduction. But one glance into the sharp, dangerous glint of his eyes froze their laughter in their throats. Even breathing felt like a dare.
Suddenly, a shaft of sunlight pierced the darkness of the alley, illuminating Ryu as he took his stance, casting him in a dramatic, almost ethereal glow.
The monkey-faced gang leader and his men stared at Ryu with eyes wide as saucers. After a tense moment, a skinny gang member finally whispered in awe, his voice trembling.
"H! He is so divine!"
"H! He is… so holy…" muttered a short gang member, barely audible over the tense silence, his eyes wide with awe and fear.
"This brat… he must be the prophet of God." The fat gang member's voice rumbled with a mix of awe and fear, his serious tone silencing the rest of the gang.
The monkey-faced gang leader whipped his head toward his men, eyes blazing with fury, yet tears streaked down his cheeks as he shouted, his voice cracking with a mix of anger and awe.
"You fools! Don't you dare disrespect Lord Ryu! He is a god in flesh—show the respect he commands!"
Ryu's brow glistened with a sudden sweat drop, while the monkey-faced leader and his men dropped to their knees, trembling in complete submission.
The monkey-faced leader bowed his head deeply to Ryu, speaking to him with genuine reverence.
"God Ryu-sama… I beg of you! Lead us, show us the righteous path, and let your wisdom shine upon our souls!"
Ryu froze in place, his eyes widening as the words of the monkey-faced man echoed in his mind.
'He is an idiot and very amusing.'
Then his eyes gleamed with mischief as he sheathed back his training katana.
"I am glad you fools finally realized my godhood. Now step aside—I've got a date with the Marine base to cash in that moron's bounty!" Ryu said, pointing disdainfully at Ned's unconscious form sprawled on the ground.
The monkey-faced man rose to his feet, his gaze fixed on Ryu with genuine sincerity.
"G-God, you don't need to worry! We'll cash in his bounty for you!"
Ryu let out a low chuckle, his eyes glinting with amusement. He was savoring the taste of his new title, basking in the respect—and fear—it demanded.
"Come, my faithful servants! Together, we shall make our way to the Marine base!"
All the gang members nodded in unison. The monkey-faced leader snatched Ned in his arms, and together, they began marching toward the Marine base, their footsteps echoing ominously down the alley.
______
With Musashi
In the underground Base
"BAAM!, BAAM!, BAAM!, BAAM!, BAAM!"
"AAAGGHH!"
"TAP!, TAP!, TAP!, TAP!, TAP!"
Musashi's footsteps echoed softly in the dimly lit underground base. With a flick of his wrist, black-suited men were hurled violently across the concrete walls, their bodies crumpling on impact. Yet Musashi himself walked forward calmly, his expression unreadable, as if the chaos around him were nothing more than a gentle breeze.
Only three men remained standing, their eyes wide with terror as they stared at Musashi.
Musashi looked at them coldly.
"I won't repeat myself, you insolent brats. Call your boss out here, or I'll keep beating the hell out of every last one of you. I don't have all day to waste on trash like you. And knowing my grandson, that idiot is probably lost again. I need to find him before he goes and does something even stupider."
Suddenly, the massive door of the base groaned open, revealing a middle-aged man with spiky purple hair. He strode out effortlessly, dressed in a sleek black suit, a cigar clenched between his teeth as smoke curled around his sharp features. His presence alone seemed to warp the air, demanding attention from everyone in the room.
He was a lean, muscular man, his fair skin almost glowing under the light, and his large gray eyes scanning the surroundings with a cold intensity. Resting effortlessly over his shoulder was a shotgun, its weight seemingly no burden to him, as if it were an extension of his own arm.
The man inhaled deeply from his cigar, exhaling a cloud of smoke that curled in the dim light. His gray eyes narrowed at Musashi as he leveled the shotgun, voice low and lethal:
"Who are you? Do you even understand the consequences of the chaos you're stirring in this base? Keep this up, and there won't be a single place left for you to hide—not in the Blues, not in the Grand Line."
Musashi snorted, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as amusement danced in his gaze.
"Relax. I am your customer. I came to buy information from the Black Market. If you want to blame someone, blame your incompetent subordinates for picking a fight with me without even asking who I am—or what I'm doing here."
"You should be grateful I didn't use my katana. If I had, every single one of them would be dead before they even had time to blink."
The spiky purple-haired man's eyes narrowed to slits, a cold shadow passing over his face. His subordinates froze, trembling under the weight of his gaze.
Musashi tossed the Devil Fruit that Ryu had discovered in the Crescent Moon Forest toward the purple-haired man, who snatched it instinctively mid-air.
"I trust this Devil Fruit will cover the fees of my transaction."
The purple-haired man eyed the Devil Fruit and smirked. He holstered his shotgun and turned to Musashi, his smile sharp and calculating, like a seasoned businessman closing a deal.
"I apologize for my subordinate's actions, sir. I assure you, each of them will face the full measure of my punishment."
The purple-haired man's eyes swept over his trembling subordinates, who began sweating in fear. Then, turning his gaze to Musashi, his smile spread across his face as he continued speaking.
"Please, follow me to my office. There, we can speak freely… in complete privacy."
Musashi nodded silently, then fell in step behind the purple-haired man as they made their way to his office.
________
Inside the office
Musashi settled into the chair opposite the purple-haired man. The man poured a glass of amber liquor, setting it before Musashi with a faint, practiced smile, alongside a small plate of neatly arranged snacks. He leaned back slightly, exhaling a thin stream of smoke, and began to introduce himself, his voice smooth yet edged with authority.
"First, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Willy, and I am the main manager of the Black Market in the East Blue. I apologize once again for the incompetence of my subordinates."
Musashi nodded, downing the drink in a single gulp, then set the empty glass on the table with a quiet thud.
"I don't care about those fools. I came today for one reason—to buy information from the Black Market."
Willy's eyes gleamed with interest as he leaned forward and asked.
"What sort of information are you after, sir?"
Musashi's eyes narrowed with irritation as he fixed Willy with a cold glare and said.
"First, stop calling me 'sir.' It makes me feel like I'm one step away from my grave, my name is Miyamoto Musashi."
Willy let out a low chuckle and gave a subtle nod. Musashi's gaze sharpened, and without a word, he continued.
"I'm sure you saw today's headlines—Gold Roger captured by the Marines. I need the full story. The Black Market has branches everywhere; I believe you're the one who can provide me with the full details."
Willy fell silent at Musashi's words, his gaze sharpening as he studied him carefully.
"I'll be honest with you, Musashi-san… this could take a while. The Devil Fruit you gave me might not even cover the fees for this transaction."
Upon hearing Willy's words Musashi snorted.
"Listen, you're a businessman—you have your reputation to uphold. I don't believe you'd scam me. Don't worry about the fees; as long as you do your part, I'll pay you in full."
Willy smiled at Musashi's words and refilled his glass.
"Heh… in that case, just wait for my news," he said, a faint smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "The Black Market may not rival the Cipher Pol's reach or the World Economy Newspaper's intel, but… our real strength? It's in our contacts."
"I'm certain—no matter how hard the World Government tries to bury the truth about Gold Roger's capture, I'll uncover it. It's only a matter of time… and how deep those government dogs have hidden their secrets."
Musashi nodded in satisfaction, downing the booze in a single gulp. Without a word, he stood, the weight of his presence filling the room.
"Alright, I'll leave the Gold Roger matter in your capable hands, Willy. I need to go find my grandson before he does something truly stupid."
Willy chuckled, leaning back in his chair, the sound echoing softly in his office.
"Allow my men to find your grandson, Musashi-san, and bring him to you. Consider it my apology for the trouble my men have caused to you."
Musashi smirked and nodded.
"Fine. Give me paper and a pen. As long as Ryu-kun sees my handwriting, he won't give your men any trouble."
Willy threw back his head and laughed in amusement..
"Your grandson seems like an interesting kid. Give me a moment—I'll go fetch some paper and a pen for you."
With a swift motion, Willy snatched a paper and pen from his desk, and sliding them toward Musashi.
After scrawling a single sentence, Musashi slid the paper back across the table to Willy.
"Tell your men to just show this paper to Ryu-kun. He's wearing a red and black kimono with a white sash and a black katana at his side."
Willy smiled and nodded.
"Understood. Wait here—I'll go inform my men."
And with that Willy exited his office.
________
With Ryu
It took Ryu nearly an entire hour to finally reach the Logue Town's Marine base, having taken countless wrong turns along the way. But thanks to the Monkey Face and his men, he eventually made it to the base.
Two Marine soldiers froze in place the moment they saw Ryu calmly walking toward them, Ned Howell slung over his shoulder, bound tightly in ropes and struggling desperately to escape Ryu's iron grip, while Monkey Face and his men trailed behind. Their eyes widened in utter disbelief at the unbelievable sight before them.
One of the Marine soldiers muttered in disbelief, his voice barely above a whisper.
"I-I can't believe it… That's Black Axe Ned Hawell—the highest-bounty pirate in the East Blue! Am I seeing things?!"
The other Marine stood there speechless, too stunned to utter a single word.
Ryu came to a halt before the two Marine soldiers, then flashed them a calm smile before speaking.
"I'm here to cash in this guy's bounty. And tell me… is Captain Doll at the base?"
One of the Marine soldiers could only nod dumbly at Ryu after hearing his question.
Ryu smiled in satisfaction after seeing the Marine nod and said.
"Good. Tell her I'm here—and that I want to cash in this guy's bounty as soon as possible. My faithful followers deserve a proper feast."
At his words, one of the Marine soldiers stepped aside, and spoke..
"Please, step inside and wait in the lobby. I'll go inform Captain Doll that you've arrived."
Ryu spun around to face the Monkey Face and his crew, his voice slicing through the air as he shouted
"Alright, my loyal servants… let's head inside!"
Upon hearing his words, the monkey-faced leader and his men responded in perfect unison.
"Lead the way god."
A bead of sweat rolled down each Marine soldier's face as they exchanged bewildered glances, unable to comprehend what they had just heard.
'Why do they call him god?'
Ryu didn't spare a glance for the two Marines, his steps deliberate as he strode into the base, the monkey-faced leader and his men falling into step behind him like shadows.
One of the Marine soldiers let out a long, weary sigh as Ryu and his entourage disappeared through the base doors.
'No point in worrying about things that don't concern me… I better go and inform Captain Doll that Black Axe Ned has been captured.'
Without a moment's delay, the Marine guard spun on his heel and strode into the base, rushing to inform Captain Doll of the unfolding situation.
_______
Inside the Marine Base
Ryu and his companions lounged lazily on the plush sofas in the lobby, their patience unwavering as they awaited Captain Doll's arrival. Behind him, the monkey face and his men gazed at Ryu with reverent awe, their eyes practically shining with worship, while Ryu leaned back, smirking with an arrogant confidence that seemed to fill the room.
Ned lay sprawled on the floor at Ryu's feet, his voice cracking as he shouted furious threats that bounced off the lobby walls. But Ryu didn't flinch—he reclined on the sofa, eyes shut, exuding a calm that made Ned's fury feel powerless.
"Just you wait, brat! Don't think you've won! The second I escape, the very first thing I'll do is kill you!"
The monkey face's eyes blazed with fury, and with a roar, he launched a vicious kick straight into Ned's face, sending his teeth flying in the air..
"How dare you, you worthless scum, threaten God Ryu-sama?! You deserve ten thousand deaths!"
Suddenly, a sweet, melodic voice floated through the lobby, catching everyone off guard and turning heads in unison.
"Well, well… I've never seen this lobby so lively before. Seems like today's going to be interesting."
When Ryu and the others saw who had spoken, the monkey face and his men froze, their eyes widening at the breathtaking beauty of the woman standing before them. But Ryu didn't hesitate. He rushed forward, dropping to one knee, his left hand gently grasping hers. Looking up at her with unwavering calm, he spoke in a soft, reverent tone.
"Ah, my radiant sunflower… at last, you reveal your divine beauty! I am truly blessed to witness your brilliance lighting up this lobby. My dear Captain Doll, let us go on a date and uncover the secret of love together, my sweetest honey."
The eyes of the monkey face and his men sparkled with awe as they gazed at Ryu, and soon their whistles pierced the air, a boisterous chorus of admiration and encouragement.
"Way to go God."
"My Lord sugar words can capture any beauty."
"He is so divine."
"Absolutely, he is the heart-snatcher of every maiden in this world!"
Doll's cheeks flared crimson with embarrassment, and she spun toward Ryu, shouting furiously, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and fluster.
"Get away from me you pervert."
She launched a sharp kick aimed straight at Ryu's face, but he effortlessly raised his arm to block it. Without a hint of strain, he stepped aside, his expression calm, almost teasing, as he walked past her.
The monkey face and his men kept whistling, their cheers echoing through the lobby, eyes gleaming in worship for Ryu.
"God Ryu-sama! That was incredible! We'll follow you to the ends of the earth and beyond!"
Doll's lips curled into a wry smile, a faint chuckle escaping as she scoffed, her eyes glinting with amusement at the title they tossed at Ryu. 'is that what they think of him?" she murmured, shaking her head lightly, a mix of disbelief and teasing dancing in her gaze.
"Why the hell are they calling you god? Do you have a god complex now?"
Ryu slowly lifted his head at Doll's question, a cocky smirk curling across his lips, his eyes gleaming with playful arrogance as he stared down at her.
"Because I am the god of love."
The lobby fell into a stunned silence after Ryu's bold declaration. Doll couldn't help but groan, bringing her hand to her forehead in an exasperated slap, her cheeks tinting a faint shade of red.
"You've really let this god complex go to your head, you damn fool! Fine then—I'll just have to kick your pathetic ass myself!"
"Ryu let out a soft chuckle, raising his arms in playful surrender, a sly grin tugging at the corners of his lips.
"Oi, oi calm down Doll-chan no need for violence."
Doll snorted dismissively and shot a sharp glance at the two Marines standing stiffly behind her.
"Julian, Ken—take this trash away. Throw him in a cell, then go to the bounty department to cash his bounty."
Julian and Ken snapped a crisp salute, then hoisted Ned between them and marched him out of the lobby, their steps echoing through the grand hall.
Doll then looked seriously at Ryu and said.
"Ryu… I know we've talked about this countless times, but I'll say it again. Join the Navy. With your strength, you could do so many great deeds for the world. You're officially the strongest swordsman in all of East Blue now."
Ryu's eyebrows shot up at the words, a spark of curiosity lighting his gaze as he leaned forward and asked.
"How do you know I am the strongest swordsman in East Blue?"
Doll gave a small smile and replied.
"There's a notorious bounty hunter named Kenichi Hareyama, feared as 'The Cleaver'—a man whose signature is a long, razor-sharp cleaver that strikes fear into anyone who crosses his path."
"A couple of years ago, he earned the title of the strongest swordsman in all of East Blue. He defeated every notorious swordsmen in the East Blue whether they were—pirates, bounty hunters, or even Navy officers—he defeated every one of them in a swordsmanship duel."
"A few months ago, he tried to capture the Black Axe—the highest pirate bounty in all of East Blue—and failed. But you… you succeeded. That makes you the new strongest swordsman in the entire East Blue."
Ryu smiled softly after hearing this his heart felt lighter.
'This feeling is so good the feeling of accomplishment I like it.'
Ryu's gaze hardened as he locked eyes with Doll, slowly shaking his head.
"Listen, Doll-chan… my answer hasn't changed. I consider you a friend, but I have to refuse. I don't want to become a Marine."
Doll frowned upon hearing this and asked.
"Why not?"
Ryu chuckled and started explaining.
"First, my freedom… will be restricted by the higher-ups. I can't—won't—let that happen I enjoy being free."
"Second, I'm no saint. I won't risk my life for a total stranger. Sure, I might help if I happen to be nearby… but that's as far as it goes."
"And finally… I just want to travel freely, without anyone holding me back."
Doll sighed, a flicker of disappointment in her eyes, but nodded in understanding. Unnoticed by her, Ryu's back stiffened. His gaze sharpened, icy and unyielding, as he muttered in his head.
'Most importantly… I will never lift my sword for this rotten, corrupt government!'
After a few minutes, Julian and Ken returned, each carrying a briefcase. They approached Ryu and carefully placed the cases in front of him, the clink of metal echoing softly in the silent room.
"Ryu-san… here is the Black Axe bounty. Thank you… for your incredible help."
Ryu chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming with amusement as he watched Ken and Julian fidget nervously.
"You guys should relax I don't bite."
Ryu grabbed the briefcases and said to the monkey face and the others.
"Alright, my faithful followers! Move out—we're finished here."
The monkey-face and the others trailed behind Ryu obediently, and with a casual wave, he bid farewell to Doll.
"See you around, my sweet Doll. If you ever change your mind about the date… come find me. I'll show you that my love is endless—and as sweet as you are."
A tic appeared above Doll's eyebrow as she glared at Ryu and yelled.
"Get out of my base before I snap your perverted neck."
"KAHAHAHAHAHA, I love you too my sweet sunflower."
_________
Outside the Marine base
After Ryu and the others exited the Marine base, the monkey-faced man and his men stared at Ryu, their eyes burning with fanatic devotion. After a long, tense pause, the monkey-faced man finally spoke.
"God Ryu-sama! You were incredible! Captain Doll is known as the coldest beauty in all of Logue Town, yet the way you spoke to her… the way you teased and flirted… it was truly manly! From this day forward, the Blue Fang Gang is no more. We will follow you to the ends of the earth, even through oceans of flames! We want to learn the secrets of love, the true way every man must walk… and we will follow you, God Ryu-sama!"
The monkey-faced subordinates nodded in unison, their loyalty unwavering. Ryu threw back his head and laughed, the sound echoing like thunder across the empty street.
"KAHAHAHAHA! You grown men—listen! You don't need anyone's permission, you fools! If you're real men, then follow your hearts without a single shred of hesitation!"
The monkey-face man eyes gleamed with sudden understanding, and his men mirrored the revelation. From just behind him, a lanky figure stepped forward, and addressed Ryu.
"God Ryu-sama where are we going now?"
Ryu smirked upon hearing the question.
"Isn't obvious we are going to celebrate."
The monkey face tilted his head, in confusion as he stared at Ryu.
"Celebrate?"
Ryu chuckled at their bewildered expressions, a faint smirk tugging at his lips, and gave a slow, nod.
"Remember this, my faithful servants, and engrave it in your hearts—the way of love is a joyful path! The truest fun comes from celebration, from dancing, from living every moment as a grand party"
Upon hearing Ryu's words, the Monkey Face and his men's eyes gleamed with sudden understanding. A spark of admiration ignited in the Monkey Face as he stepped forward his voice was serious.
"God Ryu-sama I know the perfect place for us to celebrate."
Ryu got intrigued and asked.
"Oh go ahead monkey tell me where is this place?"
The monkey face puffed his chest proudly and said.
"It's called The Juicy Meat Barbeque—the ultimate spot for BBQ lovers in all of Logue Town! Here, we can feast, drink, and indulge as much as we want! Just imagine the sizzle, the smoke, and that mouthwatering aroma—it's paradise on a plate!"
Ryu smiled with satisfaction and lightly tapped him on the shoulder.
"Good work Monkey! Lead the way to the restaurant."
The monkey face nodded, then turned and strode toward the restaurant with purpose. Ryu and the others fell in step behind him, their footsteps echoing softly as the anticipation of the meal ahead hung in the air.
_______
In the juicy meat barbeque restaurant
Ryu leaned back in his chair, a wide grin plastered across his face, as the aroma of sizzling meat and smoky barbecue filled the air. The monkey face and his men were guffawing boisterously, tossing skewers into their mouths with reckless joy, while mugs of frothy booze clinked together in celebration. Flames danced in the grill, reflecting in their eyes as laughter echoed through the restaurant, blending with the crackle of fire and the mouthwatering sizzle of perfectly grilled meat.
Ryu wiped a smear of sauce off his chin and laughed, "This… this is the beauty of the way of love?"
Some were dancing around the table, others eagerly trying every sauce on the meat, while the rest clapped along, fully immersed in the joyous celebration.
At that moment, five middle-aged men in sharp black suits strode into the restaurant, their eyes scanning the room with an air of quiet authority.
The leader's gaze locked onto Ryu and his companions, and without a word, he began striding toward them, his four followers silently shadowing his every step.
He stepped in front of Ryu, a warm, friendly smile spreading across his face.
"Ryu-san… it's an honor to meet you. I bring a letter from your grandfather, Musashi-sama."
Ryu and the others fell silent upon hearing this. One of the men in black suits stepped forward, bowing slightly, and handed Ryu a neatly sealed letter. "This… is from Musashi-sama," he said, his voice low but respectful.
Ryu carefully opened the envelope, and the moment his eyes fell on the letter inside, a spark of recognition lit up his face—he knew that handwriting instantly.
"Ryu-kun, follow these men to their base. I'll be waiting for you there, and if you get lost… the next training session will be a hundred times harder! And don't forget—you'll be doing every single house chore by yourself for a whole month!"
After unfolding the letter, Ryu let out a nervous chuckle, his fingers trembling slightly. His eyes flicked to the five men in black suits, each staring back with unreadable expressions, and he slowly pushed himself to his feet, heart pounding like a drum.
"Thank you for delivering the letter. Please, lead the way!"
The Monkey Face and the others rose to their feet, eyes were sharp as they asked Ryu.
"God, do you need our aid? Just say the word, and we'll crush anyone foolish enough to disrespect you, my lord!"
The five men in black suits fixed their gaze on the monkey-faced man and the others, eyes narrowing as if they were staring at nothing but a group of fools.
One of them scoffed.
'Morons… do they really think they can take on that old monster?!'
'Who do those idiots think they are?! That old geezer could crush them with a single finger! The way he moved… no normal human could move like that, especially an old man… he is a monster in human skin.'
'Those idiots really had a death wish.'
'imbeciles.'
Ryu chuckled and handed the monkey face 500,000 Berries to them and said.
"Oi, you guys! Calm down and enjoy yourselves—have fun! This is family time, so don't worry. We'll all meet up again soon!"
The monkey face and his companions erupted in cheers, their heads bobbing in agreement. With a small grin, Ryu fell in step behind the five black-suited men as they strode out of The Juicy Meat Barbeque restaurant.
______
With Ryu
Ryu trailed behind the five men in black suits, their footsteps echoing in the empty alley. Once they confirmed they weren't being watched, one of the men stooped and tapped the ground five times in precise rhythm. In an instant, the asphalt shuddered and part of it rose like a curtain, revealing a dark staircase spiraling downward into shadow.
Ryu's eyes widened, heart racing—this wasn't just an alley. This was a gateway to something hidden..
'What the hell?! What on earth has Grandfather been up to?!'
After taking a deep breath, Ryu let a small, knowing smile curl on his lips. His eyes sparkled with curiosity, sharp and unafraid. Without a moment's hesitation, he stepped forward, descending the hidden staircase, the five black-suited men silently following in his wake.
______
In the underground base
Ryu's eyes widened in shock as he stepped into the underground base. The dimly lit chamber buzzed with activity—black-suited men hurried back and forth, their voices crackling through multiple Den Den Mushi devices. Some scribbled furiously on sheets of paper, while others exchanged terse nods after finishing a call. The air was thick, every movement precise, every glance sharp. Ryu couldn't help but feel surprise—this wasn't just a hideout, it was an operation in motion.
One of the black suited men who brought Ryu to the underground base looked at Ryu respectfully and said.
"Ryu-san please follow us."
Ryu gave a small, smile and nodded. Without a word, he fell into step behind the five black-suited men, his eyes scanning the base as he followed the black suited men.
When they reached a large, imposing door, one of the black-suited men raised his hand and knocked gently. Moments later, a rough, gravelly voice echoed from the other side.
"Enter."
Without hesitation, the five black-suited men pushed the massive door open and stepped inside, and Ryu followed silently behind them.
________
Inside Willy's office
When Ryu saw Musashi sitting casually and drinking booze inside Wally's office he raised his eyebrows at him.
"Grandfather… what is this place? And… what are you doing here?"
Musashi casually stood up, brushing his sleeves.
"This… is the main base of the East Blue branch of the Black Market."
Ryu raised his eyebrows in confusion.
"The Black Market...? What kind of place is this…?"
Willy let out a low chuckle, the corners of his eyes crinkling, before leaning slightly closer.
"Musashi-san, I'd like to give your grandson a brief explanation of the Black Market."
Musashi shrugged his shoulder and said to Willy with a faint smirk.
"Go ahead. Sooner or later, he'll find out about the Black Market on his own."
Willy chuckled and he nodded his head in agreement.
"Listen carefully, kid. The Black Market isn't just some marketplace. It's where the world's deepest secrets, forbidden treasures, and the most dangerous trades take place—things you'll never see in any ordinary shop. Every deal struck here… can alter the course of a life… or end it."
Ryu's eyes widened, a mixture of curiosity and interest sparking within him as he listened intently.
Willy smirked faintly, seeing Ryu's reaction. "It's a place where the strong protect their interests, and the reckless… well, they vanish without a trace."
"These types of deals the World Government would never allow in the open because it tarnished it's reputation. Everything we sell—every service, every item—exists beyond the law, and only a few know how to get their hands on them."
"We even run underground auctions… where the rarest treasures of the world are put on the line—Devil Fruits, relics, and so on, only for those daring enough to bid."
Ryu's lips curved into a small, knowing smile as Willy's explanation sank in. He gave a subtle nod.
After Willy finished his explaination Musashi walked towards the door.
"Thank you for broadening my grandson horizons Willy. We'll be taking our leave now. I'll await the information I requested from you."
Willy gave his professional business smile to Musashi and nodded.
"Sure thing, Musashi-san. I'll contact you as soon as I have the information you requested. Don't worry—I just ask you to be patient with me."
Musashi gave a curt nod and stepped out of Willy's office, his footsteps echoing lightly in the dim underground hall. Ryu followed closely behind, his eyes flicking around as they made their way out of the base.
_______
With Ryu and Musashi
As Musashi and Ryu walked back toward their house, Musashi glanced at Ryu hesitantly. After a brief pause, he finally spoke.
"Ryu-kun… you've grown into such a fine young man. I think it's finally time I tell you about your biological father."
When Ryu heard what Musashi had just said, he leaned in, listening intently as they walked toward their house. Musashi continued, his voice calm but carrying an unspoken weight.
"Your father… his name was Gan D. Kyo. Before joining the infamous Rocks Pirates, he was a legendary hitman—an assassin for hire feared across the seas. They called him… The Silver Axe." (I made Silver Axe a D and I made up the Gan name).
"Kyo… he was a true monster. He thrived on killing, a battle maniac through and through. Twenty years ago, when we faced each other, he nearly cleaved me in half with his axe…"
Musashi then sighed in his heart.
'I'm not sure if it's wise to tell Ryu what I'm about to… but he deserves to know the whole truth.'
"Sixteen years ago, your father kidnapped your mother. When I heard the news, I left our village immediately to search for her. Six months later, I found her on an abandoned island, pregnant with. She told me… how Kyo had kidnapped her, and how he rapped her."
Ryu's eyes softened, clarity washing over him. He now understood why his biological mother had harbored so much hatred for him..
After arriving at the house, they both settled into the lounge, sitting across from each other.
Musashi looked seriously at Ryu and asked.
"Do you hate your mother Ryu-kun?"
Ryu was quiet for a moment, his thoughts drifting. Then he shook his head gently, a soft smile spreading across his face as if he had reached a silent understanding.
"To be honest… I think I understand now why she abandoned me. She must hate me so much because of my father… But I owe her everything for giving me life. If she hadn't given birth to me, I would have never met you, Grandfather."
Musashi's eyes widened in surprise, and then a small smile tugged at his lips.
Ryu then locked eyes with Musashi, his expression sharpening with determination.
"I haven't given up, Grandfather. One day… my sword will surpass yours."
Musashi chuckled softly, shaking his head but in the next instant he spoke softly.
"Ryu-kun… I'm just an old geezer now. The samurai I once was is gone. If you truly want to reach your full potential, you must aim higher than what I could ever achieve."
Ryu's eyes widened, his fists tightening instinctively as a storm of emotions flashed across his face. He struggled to contain the surge of shock and determination bubbling inside him. Musashi, sensing the weight of the moment, took a slow breath and continued, his voice calm but heavy with meaning.
"I'll be honest with you, kid… your talent with the sword is extraordinary. I've trained countless swordsmen and faced many formidable fighters, but in terms of raw instinct and potential… you surpass most of them… if not all."
Ryu listened quietly to every word Musashi said, his expression calm yet deeply attentive as he absorbed each word in silence.
"You need to set out on your own journey, Ryu… and find a new goal—an ambition so great, so meaningful, that it becomes something worth risking your life for."
Ryu's eyes widened, and his heartbeat quickened, as though a tiny seed had been planted within his heart—one that would one day grow into something far greater.
Musashi then gave a small serene smile to Ryu.
"The sea is unimaginably vast, Ryu-kun. Out there, you'll meet all kinds of fascinating people… and somewhere along that endless horizon, you will find a dream… a goal… an ambition worth staking your very life on."
"The East Blue has nothing left to offer you. If you stay here, your swordsmanship will never truly evolve."
"I won't force you to leave, kid… but you're a smart one. Think carefully about what I just told you, Ryu."
"When you've finally made up your mind, come see me."
"After finishing his words, Musashi rose slowly and walked out of the house, the evening light casting long shadows behind him."
Ryu kept sitting in his spot contemplating deeply at what Musashi said.
After ten minutes Ryu sighed heavily and smiled.
'Well… grandfather had a point. Maybe it's time I leave the East Blue. But… for now, I'll enjoy myself a little in Logue Town before setting off.'
_______
Six months later
Six months had passed since Musashi had revealed the truth about Ryu's father. Now, the two of them walked side by side toward the bustling square. The air was thick with anticipation. Every corner of Logue Town seemed to pulse with energy—citizens, pirates, and bounty hunters alike, all had gathered, their eyes fixed on the upcoming spectacle. Among the crowd were notorious figures whispered about in the darkest corners of the underground, their presence alone sending ripples of tension through the square. Ryu could feel his heart hammering, excitement, and the curiosity of what was about to unfold.
Ryu's eyes lingered on the freshly built execution platform, a curiosity flickering across his face.
'Gold Roger… or, as grandfather calls him, Gol D. Roger. This man conquered the entire Grand Line—something no pirate has ever achieved. I can't help but wonder… what kind of person could he be?'
Suddenly, every head in Logue Town—citizens, pirates, bounty hunters, and figures of the underground alike—snapped toward the source of the approaching footsteps. A heavy silence fell, broken only by the sound of boots striking the cobblestones.
Ryu's eyes widened as he spotted a tall, imposing, and heavily muscled man striding toward the execution platform, his hands bound in iron cuffs. Marines flanked him on every side, forming an unbroken wall of authority that made the scene feel both tense and inevitable. The crowd fell silent, all attention drawn to the figure whose mere presence seemed to command respect—and fear.
He had thick black hair and a powerful, muscular neck. But what truly drew Ryu's attention were his long, curved mustache and the fierce grin that stretched across his face. His eyes burned with an intensity that seemed to pierce through the crowd. Ryu's breath caught, and his heart skipped a beat as he watched Roger stride toward the execution platform, every step radiating unstoppable force and unshakable confidence.
Gol D. Roger strode forward. His long red captain's coat, trimmed with intricate gold accents, fluttered dramatically in the wind. Beneath it, a deep blue shirt clung to his broad chest, cinched at the waist with a bright yellow sash that hinted at both elegance and authority. A crisp white cravat framed his neck, contrasting sharply with his rugged features. His dark blue pants were tucked neatly into polished black sea boots, completing the image of a pirate who had conquered the Grand Line. Every movement radiated confidence, every step whispered the legend of the Pirate King.
At that instant, Roger's fierce grin widened, and his eyes shone with a blazing pride as they locked onto Ryu.
Ryu's heart beat faster upon meeting Roger's eyes
'This guy… he's far stronger than my grandfather, there's no doubt about that. But that smile, those eyes… they aren't the eyes of someone who's been defeated. No… they belong to someone who has already won.'
After climbing the execution platform, Roger settled into a cross-legged position with an air of superiority. His eyes gleamed with audacity as he looked down at the executioners standing beside him, and, with a voice dripping confidence, he spoke arrogantly.
"Let's get this over with quickly."
However, before the executioners could raise their blades, a sharp voice pierced through the murmuring crowd.
"Oi, Pirate King."
Roger's sharp gaze cut through the crowd as he fixed his eyes on the man who dared call out to him.
"Where… where did you hide your treasure? You've found it, haven't you…?"
At that moment, the executioners' nerves snapped—they shouted at the man, voices trembling with tension.
"Shut up be quite."
But the man ignored the executioner.
"The One Piece."
Roger's chuckle started low, almost casual, but it quickly swelled into a booming, uncontrollable laughter. The sound ripped through the square, silencing the crowd in an instant. Even the executioners froze, their hands trembling as fear gripped their hearts.
"WAHAHAHAHAHA!"
"My treasure? If you want it, you can have it! Search for it! I left everything in that place!"
The executioners no longer hesitated. In a swift, synchronized motion, their blades pierced through Roger. He slumped silently, the life fading from his eyes, yet he remained seated and smiling on the execution platform as if it were his throne. A heavy silence fell over the square, broken only by the faint rustle of the crowd, who dared not breathe, witnessing the legendary man fall.
After a tense pause, the crowd erupted into deafening cheers, waves of excitement crashing through the square—but Ryu remained rooted to the ground, his heart pounding and eyes locked on Roger. Shock and admiration mingled in his gaze, as if he were staring at a legend carved in flesh and blood. The air around them seemed to thrum, alive with the presence of someone truly extraordinary.
"He died with that fearless smile… incredible. The sea… it must be full of people like him. Yeah… it's time. Time for me to set sail and see what the world had to offer.'
After Ryu made up his mind he gave a wide smirk full of excitement.
Musashi's sharp eyes softened as he glanced at Ryu's smirk. A faint, almost tender smile curved his lips. Then, his gaze shifted to the lifeless body of Roger seated on the execution platform. He closed his eyes, his hands clasped together, and whispered a solemn prayer, the wind carrying his words across the cheering crowd. For a moment, the world seemed to pause, honoring the fallen pirate's soul.
'Thank you, kid… you inspired my grandson. You always helped others without even realizing it, even in the very last moments of your life. Rest in peace…'
The words hung in the air like a gentle wind, carrying the weight of gratitude and sorrow. The old man's eyes glistened as he bowed his head.
He then turned to Ryu and said to him.
"Ryu, we need to leave. The Marines will strike the pirates here soon—we can't afford to get caught up in this."
Ryu nodded and they both left the square silently.
_______